Hi. I am commenting on your article in the JUF magazine comparing Esther and Vashti. Although they are interesting thoughts, from where did you learn that Vashti was good and standing up to the king? It’s a nice interpretation, but where is the Torah source that says this. Everything I’ve learned says Vashti has tzoras (like a skin rash) and did not want to be seen. Her actions were based on vanity. She actually had no problem being seen naked but rather being seen ugly. She was cruel to Jewish women and even made them work on Shabbat. So, I would like to know the source for your interpretation. Thank you for your time.

Hi, Thanks for writing to me. Sorry it took a while to answer. I know which midrash to which you are referring, and it is that, a midrash. I love midrash. I love that people continue to delve deep into the text for meaning, and at all times, the midrashim reflect the perspective of the midrash-creator. The midrash solves a problem by explaining something that bothers the reader. However, Vashti doesn’t “bother” me. Clearly, her behavior bothered the Rabbis, so they needed to develop some story that would justify her behavior, and make her evil and unacceptable. Hence, the midrash you cited.
Thank you for responding to my column; I hope you continue to read it, and I look forward to additional “virtual” conversations with you.